Pearce set for summer talks

England Under-21 coach Stuart Pearce expects talks over a new contract to be deferred to the summer.

But Pearce insists he is more focused on preparing for the European Championship finals in Israel in June.

When asked about his contract, Pearce said: "The last thing we've had was probably it might be deferred to the summer. It is not a major priority for myself. The tournament is more important for me."

Pearce will be leading England into a fourth Euro finals since taking charge six years ago and is optimistic about the current crop of players.

The former England defender is excited about the potential of Derby midfielder Will Hughes and Southampton full-back Luke Shaw who are included in the squad for Tuesday evening's friendly with Sweden at Walsall.

He said: "We always are excited. Once one group go through to the seniors, all of a sudden another group of youngsters comes through.

"The likes of Will Hughes and Luke Shaw have just come into the group and they excite me as well.

"Will has had a good season. I'm good friends with Nigel Clough so I keep in close contact about how he is doing at Derby.

"We are pleased with his development and have to make sure that we nurture that development."